Whether you find yourself hosting unexpected holiday guests or are suddenly tasked with bringing a dish to pass at a party, it's a good idea to have in your recipe arsenal those crowd-pleasing dishes that look deliciously elaborate and taste just as impressive but are, in fact, a cinch to prepare. When last-minute get-togethers arise, reach for Food Network's top-five quick recipes for
Christmas, a collection of celebration-worthy classics from some of your favorite chefs, like Rachael, Robert and Ina. Perhaps best of all, these go-to picks can be on the table in less than 35 minutes.

4.
Creamed Spinach — With a rich and creamy sauce subtly spiced with nutmeg, this traditional steakhouse side dish can be made easily at home with fresh spinach and will round out any entree.

3.
Five-Minute Fudge Wreath — The secret to making Rachael's ultimate dessert is working quickly. She combines chocolate and butterscotch morsels with sweetened condensed milk, then forms the mixture into a wreathlike shape while it's still warm in the pan.
Click the play button on the video below to watch her make it.

2.
Old-Fashioned Mashed Potatoes — A timeless side that can be made with just five everyday ingredients, Robert's comforting mashed potatoes can feed up to 20 people, so they're a must-have addition to any large gathering or buffet spread.

If you overdid it on the holiday spread this year (ham AND prime rib, anyone?) and ended up with a fridge packed full of leftovers, never fear. We’ve got five ways to turn them into delicious new meals.